The Parliamentarians Against Drugs and Substance Abuse Caucus, has pledged to strengthen the fight against drugs and substance abuse through a unified approach with the partnership of National Authority for Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA) and Community Based Organizations (CBOs).

In a consultative meeting between the Caucus Members and a group of CBOs from Nairobi County which included Students Campaign against Drugs, Den of Hope and Oasis of Love, the Caucus Chairperson Hon. Antoney  Kibagendi (Kitutu Chache South) said they are in the forefront in reviewing the existing laws on prevention of drug and substance abuse and in ensuring their enforcement.

"This Caucus is committed to strengthening the fight against drugs and substance abuse and is prepared to effect positive change through legislative interventions especially in regulating the advertising, marketing and online sale of alcohol,” Hon. Kibagendi said.

During their presentation the CBOs led by Mr. David Odhiambo of Den of Hope  asked for involvement of the community in the fight saying lack of their involvement is the missing link to effectively addressing the drug issue in Kenya.

“The local communities should be given a say in licensing, monitoring and reporting of alcohol selling outlets contravening the law. As envisioned in the Alcoholic Drinks and Control Act (2010), this should be strengthened to ensure communities play a greater role,” Mr. Odhiambo said.

Ms. Florence Nyamoita of Oasis of Love also stated that taxation is a critical tool in reducing harmful consumption of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products calling on the Caucus to spearhead amendment of the Act that provides for incremental increase of taxes on commonly abused products.

“From the increased taxation on alcohol and tobacco, the Government will  establish and operationalize a health fund to meet its commitment to Universal Health Coverage and to address non-communicable diseases,” she said.

The CBOs also want an alternative strategy focusing on economic development to be adopted arguing that incorporating sustainable alternatives for individuals involved in drug and substance abuse will empower them and improve their wellbeing thus achieving a lasting success in the fight.

Other Caucus Members present were Hon. Esther Passaris (Nairobi) and Hon. Rindikiri Mugambi (Buuri) who assured the CBOs members that the Caucus would include other relevant stakeholders in the fight.

They also called on the relevant stakeholders including NACADA and all county governments to up their game especially in creating awareness.